Lightweight and sustainable materials for structural applications

Research and implementation of robust lightweight materials and associated innovations design and creative concepts of quick assembly of structures are crucial to the development of modern structural components and vehicles for the transportation sectors. “Lightweight structures” mean material economy, least weight for spans, lowest energy stored, and doing more with less resources. The lightweight idea entered engineering alongside the development of more efficient modes of transportation. Advanced production sectors that produce structural components are focusing on reducing energy consumption by substituting conventionally heavy materials with lighter ones, such as lightweight alloys, polymers, and composites. Lightweight alloys and composites make it possible to meet rigorous weight-reduction requirements for structural components. Sustainability is also important and is discussed in terms of the recyclability of buildings, emission reductions in vehicles, and life cycle evaluation. In accordance with these objectives, this study provides a concise summary of the lightweight and sustainable materials used in structural applications, as well as their respective case studies. Also included are the existing obstacles and future prospects for lightweight materials.